The Provence Model Forest launches a study on climate change adaptation in the Massif des Maures

The Massif des Maures is a Mediterranean forested area characterized by great ecological diversity, with vegetation mainly consisting of cork oaks, holm oaks, downy oaks, maritime pines, and maquis shrubland.

However, this natural heritage is now under severe threat: recurring and destructive forest fires, intense heatwaves and droughts, and other health-related issues.

Climate change is intensifying these phenomena, weakening and endangering the forest with increased tree mortality, reduced plant and animal biodiversity, and soil degradation.

In response to these challenges, and aware of the stakes involved, the Syndicat Mixte du Massif des Maures is leading the Fonds Vert project titled “Vulnerability diagnosis of the Massif des Maures in the face of climate change.” The study on climate change adaptation in the Massif des Maures will be conducted by Forêt Modèle de Provence, initiated by the SUD Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur Region. The Association of Forest Municipalities and the Var Energy Policy Agency will be responsible for aspects concerning natural risks (fires, floods, and water resources) and health.

The aim of this study on climate change adaptation is to analyze the massif’s vulnerability and propose solutions to enhance its resilience. This includes evaluating the current and future forest dynamics, identifying critical areas, and developing recommendations tailored to the territory’s specific needs.

This study is structured around three main pillars:

• A comprehensive literature review through the analysis of scientific research, past projects, and existing strategies, to centralize information and build on best practices.
• A shared assessment through the coordination of a network of involved stakeholders: the goal is to gather collective knowledge via interviews with local actors and build on their experiences. Exchanges with partners from Forêt Modèle de Provence will enrich the study by drawing inspiration from initiatives implemented in other countries facing climate challenges. Dialogues will be organized with Tunisia, Greece, and Catalonia, as well as participation in a major global event: the Global Forum in Canada, which brings together all model forests internationally. At the same time, a network of monitoring plots set up by INRAE will be studied to track forest population changes.
• Proposals for solutions to make the forest massif more resilient to climate change: best practices, adaptation strategies, and sustainable management perspectives to preserve the massif over the long term.

Thanks to this study, local stakeholders will have access to a detailed assessment and recommendations to better anticipate climate challenges and strengthen the resilience of the Maures forest. This is a crucial effort to preserve this unique natural heritage with a multifunctional goal.